Early Gates Reacts: Baltimora "Tarzan Boy"

Early Gates React Video: Baltimora - Tarzan Boy

"Tarzan Boy" is a song by the Italian-based act Baltimora, initially released in 1985 as the lead single from their debut album, "Living in the Background." Baltimora was an Italian music project featuring Northern Irish singer Jimmy McShane, although there's some controversy over who actually sang the song. Italian producer and songwriter Maurizio Bassi is often cited as the actual vocalist behind Jimmy McShane's lip-syncing in performances and videos. The song was released in April 1985.

"Tarzan Boy" is categorized under Italo disco, Europop, and is known for its catchy, danceable beat. The lyrics describe a man living a jungle life, reminiscent of Tarzan. The refrain notably uses Tarzan's call as a melodic line, giving it a distinctive and memorable hook. The song is rhythmical with an electronic melody and simple lyrics, often considered a novelty track due to its theme. It's famous for featuring what has been later termed the "millennial whoop," a melodic pattern of ascending notes.

"Tarzan Boy" became a significant hit, reaching the top 5 in several European countries like Italy, France (where it topped the charts for five weeks), Spain, Germany, and the Netherlands. In the UK, it climbed to number 3. In the United States, it peaked at number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1986. Baltimora is often considered a one-hit wonder, particularly in the US and UK, due to the overwhelming success of "Tarzan Boy" compared to their other songs.

The song has had a lasting cultural impact, often used in movies, TV shows, and commercials. Notably, it was featured in the soundtrack for "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles III" in 1993, and also used in a Listerine commercial in the US, which reintroduced the song to audiences in the 90s. The song was remixed and re-released in 1993, and it has been covered by various artists over the years, showing its enduring appeal. On platforms like X, users have expressed their fondness for the song, often reminiscing about its catchy tune or using it in humorous contexts.

The public face of Baltimora, Jimmy McShane, passed away in 1995 at the age of 37 from AIDS-related complications. His association with the song has given it an additional layer of history and emotional resonance. After Baltimora, Maurizio Bassi continued his career in music production, but "Tarzan Boy" remains his most recognized work.

"Tarzan Boy" by Baltimora is remembered for its unique blend of Italo disco with a jungle theme, making it an iconic track of the 80s music scene. Its catchy melody and distinctive lyrics have ensured its place in pop culture history.